Royal Caribbean Names Inspirational Hometown Hero in Education As Godmother of Harmony of the Seas

Godmother Brittany Affolter Officially NamesHarmony of the Seas

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Meet Brittany Affolter

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Brittany Affolter, who supports Teacher Leadership Development for Teach For America Miami-Dade, has been recognized for her incredible contributions to the education of South Florida’s youth with a grant of $25,000 donated by Royal Caribbean to Teach For America Miami-Dade.

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Katie O’Fallon

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What is the Role of a Godmother?

When Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Harmony of the Seas arrives at her new home in Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, FL this November, the global cruise line will celebrate her official naming ceremony. A centuries-old maritime tradition, the launch of a ship is officiated by a godmother who bestows good luck and divine protection over a seagoing vessel and all that sail aboard by breaking a bottle of champagne over the bow as the ship is named.

The role of Godmother is a lifetime title and historically an honor reserved for royalty, heads of state, and celebrities. In more modern times, criteria for the title shifted from being affluent- to merit-based, making Olympians, philanthropists and industry leaders the choice honorees.

In selecting its Godmothers, Royal Caribbean looks to capture the essence of the role by honoring women whose life lessons and achievements illustrate the kind of courage, dedication and determination that are an inspiration to all. Godmothers for Royal Caribbean ships have included former US first lady Rosalynn Carter, comedian/actress Whoopi Goldberg, champion wheelchair marathoner Jean Driscoll, Olympians Michelle Kwan, Dara Torres, and Shawn Johnson, award-winning performer Kristin Chenoweth; and South Florida’s beloved singer and entrepreneur, Gloria Estefan. Most recently, acclaimed actress, fashion icon and philanthropist, Fan Bingbing welcomed her ship, Ovation of the Seas to China.

As a company that grew from humble beginnings in South Florida, Royal Caribbean will be paying tribute to the community in which it was founded by bestowing the honor of godmother for Harmony of the Seas to an outstanding educator who is inspiring the dreamers and innovators of the area’s next generation.
She will be as inspiring as the ship she presides over. Harmony of the Seas is the world’s largest and most technologically advanced cruise ship featuring a bold and unexpected lineup of thrilling experiences, imaginative dining, unparalleled entertainment and some of the most modern and groundbreaking amenities. For more on Harmony of the Seas, click here.